Tourette Syndrome: Why Your Brain Triggers Tics & What to Do Next

Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that causes repeated, involuntary movements and sounds called tics. These tics can be confusing, frustrating, and sometimes embarrassing—but they are not a sign of weakness, poor parenting, or lack of self-control. They are the result of real, measurable differences in how the brain functions.

If you or someone you care about is experiencing tics, understanding what's happening in the brain—and what steps to take next—can make a major difference.

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What Is Tourette Syndrome?

Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood. It involves:

• Motor tics (sudden movements like blinking, shrugging, or head jerking)
• Vocal tics (sounds like throat clearing, sniffing, or grunting)

To meet medical criteria for Tourette syndrome:

• Both motor and vocal tics must be present at some point
• Tics must last for more than one year
• Symptoms usually begin before age 18
• The condition is not caused by medication, drugs, or another medical disorder

Tics often start between ages 5 and 10. Many children experience their worst symptoms between ages 10 and 12, with improvement during the teenage years.

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Why Does the Brain Trigger Tics?

Tourette syndrome is linked to changes in how certain parts of the brain communicate. The main areas involved include:

• Basal ganglia – helps control movement
• Frontal cortex – responsible for decision-making and impulse control
• Neurotransmitters, especially dopamine – chemical messengers that help brain cells communicate

What's happening?

In people with tourette syndrome, the brain's movement control system is overly sensitive. Think of it like a car engine that revs too easily. The brain sends movement signals that are:

• Too frequent
• Too strong
• Poorly filtered

This results in involuntary tics.

Many people with Tourette syndrome describe a premonitory urge—a buildup of tension or sensation before a tic happens. The tic temporarily relieves that uncomfortable feeling.

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Is Tourette Syndrome Genetic?

Yes, genetics play a significant role.

• Tourette syndrome tends to run in families.
• It likely involves multiple genes.
• A family history of tics, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or ADHD increases the likelihood.

However, not everyone with a genetic tendency develops noticeable symptoms. Environmental factors and brain development also influence how symptoms appear.

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Common Symptoms of Tourette Syndrome

Tics can vary widely from person to person.

Motor Tics

• Eye blinking
• Facial grimacing
• Shoulder shrugging
• Head jerking
• Arm or leg movements

Vocal Tics

• Throat clearing
• Sniffing
• Grunting
• Repeating words or phrases

A small percentage of people experience coprolalia (involuntary swearing), but this is uncommon and not required for diagnosis.

Important: Tics Change Over Time

Tourette syndrome is known for "waxing and waning" symptoms. Tics may:

• Improve for weeks or months
• Suddenly worsen during stress
• Shift from one type to another

This fluctuation is normal.

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What Makes Tics Worse?

Certain factors can increase tic frequency:

• Stress or anxiety
• Fatigue
• Illness
• Excitement or strong emotions
• Lack of sleep

Importantly, telling someone to "just stop" rarely works and may make symptoms worse.

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Conditions That Often Occur With Tourette Syndrome

Many people with tourette syndrome also have other conditions, including:

• ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety disorders
• Learning differences
• Sleep problems

Sometimes these related conditions cause more disruption than the tics themselves. Proper evaluation helps guide treatment.

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When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

You should speak to a healthcare professional if:

• Tics last longer than one year
• Tics interfere with school, work, or daily life
• There are signs of OCD, ADHD, or anxiety
• Movements seem unusual, painful, or different from typical tics
• Symptoms appear suddenly and severely

Although Tourette syndrome is usually not life-threatening, sudden or dramatic neurological changes always deserve medical evaluation. If there are symptoms like severe weakness, confusion, seizures, or difficulty speaking, seek urgent medical care.

If you're unsure whether your symptoms are related to tics, Ubie's free AI-powered Tics symptom checker can help you understand what might be happening and prepare thoughtful questions before your doctor visit.

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How Is Tourette Syndrome Diagnosed?

There is no single lab test or brain scan that confirms Tourette syndrome.

Diagnosis is based on:

• Medical history
• Description of tics
• Length of symptoms
• Physical and neurological exam

Doctors may order tests only if they suspect another cause.

Specialists who often diagnose Tourette syndrome include:

• Pediatricians
• Neurologists
• Child psychiatrists
• Developmental specialists

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Treatment Options for Tourette Syndrome

Not everyone with Tourette syndrome needs medication.

Treatment depends on:

• Severity of tics
• Impact on daily life
• Presence of other conditions

1. Behavioral Therapy (First-Line Treatment)

The most effective non-medication treatment is:

Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)

CBIT teaches:

• Awareness of the urge before a tic
• Competing responses to reduce tic behavior
• Stress management skills

Many people experience meaningful improvement with therapy alone.

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2. Medication

Medication may be considered if:

• Tics cause physical pain
• Social or academic functioning is impaired
• Behavioral therapy isn't enough

Common medication types include:

• Dopamine blockers
• Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists
• Medications that also treat ADHD or OCD

All medications have potential side effects, so treatment decisions should be made carefully with a doctor.

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3. Managing Co-Occurring Conditions

Treating ADHD, OCD, or anxiety often significantly improves quality of life. In many cases, addressing these conditions reduces overall tic severity.

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What Is the Long-Term Outlook?

The outlook for tourette syndrome is often better than people expect.

• Many children see major improvement in late adolescence.
• Some adults have minimal or no symptoms.
• Others continue to have mild tics that become easier to manage.

Tourette syndrome does not affect intelligence. Many individuals live full, successful lives in all professions.

The biggest challenges are often social misunderstanding—not the condition itself.

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How to Support Someone With Tourette Syndrome

If you're a parent, partner, or friend:

• Avoid drawing attention to tics.
• Reduce stress where possible.
• Encourage open discussion without shame.
• Educate teachers or coworkers if needed.
• Support professional care when appropriate.

Understanding that tics are involuntary is key.

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Practical Next Steps

If you suspect Tourette syndrome:

1. Track symptoms (type, frequency, duration).
2. Note triggers (stress, fatigue, excitement).
3. Use Ubie's free AI-powered Tics symptom checker to better understand your symptoms.
4. Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider.
5. Ask about behavioral therapy options like CBIT.

Always speak to a doctor about any symptoms that are severe, rapidly worsening, or interfering with daily life. If something feels serious or life-threatening, seek immediate medical attention.

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Final Thoughts

Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition—not a behavioral flaw. Tics happen because of differences in how the brain regulates movement and impulses. While symptoms can be frustrating, effective treatments and coping strategies exist.

Early evaluation, clear information, and proper support can dramatically improve outcomes.

If you're concerned about tics—whether for yourself or someone else—don't ignore it, but don't panic either. Start with accurate information, consider a structured symptom check, and most importantly, speak to a doctor to get guidance tailored to your specific situation.